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Why it's done
By Mayo Clinic staffSpermicide is a contraceptive substance that can help prevent pregnancy. Spermicide:
- Can be used alone or with a barrier method, such as a condom, diaphragm, contraceptive sponge or cervical cap
- Doesn't require partner cooperation
- Doesn't require a prescription
- Doesn't have the same side effects as hormone-based birth control methods
- Increases lubrication during sex
Spermicide isn't appropriate for everyone, however. Your health care provider may discourage use of spermicide if:
- You're at high risk of contracting HIV or you have HIV or AIDS
- You have frequent urinary tract infections
- You're at high risk of pregnancy — you're younger than age 30, you have sex three or more times a week, or you're not likely to consistently use spermicide
References
- Birth control methods fact sheet. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/birth-control-methods.cfm. Accessed Nov. 9, 2012.
- Barrier methods of contraception. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq022.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20121114T1421340224. Accessed Nov. 14, 2012.
- Over-the-counter vaginal contraceptive and spermicide drug products containing nonoxynol-9; Required labeling. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/80n-0280-nfr0003.pdf. Accessed Nov. 14, 2012.
- Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media; 2011:391.
- Zieman M. Overview of contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Nov. 9, 2012.
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